A New Day Begins

Evan woke up to the soft glow of morning sunlight pushing through his curtains.

Nothing dramatic, nothing unusual — just another day asking to begin. He stretched slowly,

feeling the cool air on his skin, then dragged himself into the bathroom. Warm water,

mint toothpaste, the familiar rhythm of self-care. He shaved, washed his face,

and stared at himself for a moment, wondering why he felt slightly heavier today.

Maybe it was nothing. Maybe it was something. He shrugged it off, got dressed, ate a simple breakfast,

and stepped into the calmness of the morning outside. His car sat waiting, coated in dew.

He breathed in, turned the key, and started the day.